We're delighted to share that we're currently advertising for 5 Temporary Experiences Hosts within our Experiences Team. This enthusiastic team adds a dynamic touch to our zoo, elevating the visitor experience with our passion and innovative approach. We provide unforgettable moments that leave lasting memories. This is your chance to be a part of something truly special!
The Experiences department is a vital revenue generator, making a significant financial contribution to Chester Zoo and delivers experiences for over 5,000 guests each year. We are responsible for organising, hosting and overseeing our Animal Experiences programme working closely with our animal keepers. We run the early morning bus tours giving guests the chance to have exclusive VIP access to the zoo before the gates open and we work closely with our Food and Beverage team to manage and host our breakfast dining events. With plans to launch more experiences this year, we have big ambitions mapped out for the future. We are looking for motivated, confident and positive people to join the team.
As an Experiences Host, you will:
* Play an integral role in hosting experiences, tours and breakfasts, sharing in the excitement and happiness of each participant.
* Represent Chester Zoo to the highest standards of professionalism, going above and beyond to provide the best customer satisfaction possible. So whether it be hosting Animal Experiences, leading a group on a guided tour, or driving our electric buses - our guests are all VIPs to us.
* Have very good organisation and time management skills.
* Have confidence in communicating with our guests as you will be doing this in person, over the phone, via email and even speaking on a microphone to address large crowds.
* Support the team with laundry, cleaning, stock management, sales and till transactions.
The Package
* Temporary contract until Tuesday 30th September 2025.
* Rate of pay of £12.21 per hour (inclusive of April 2025 pay award) regardless of age.
* Working on a rota basis with a minimum of 8 hours per week including weekends, evenings and bank holidays. Hours will be significantly more during busy periods.
* Some early mornings (7am) and late night (10pm) shifts may arise but are not regular.
* Staff pass so you can visit the zoo during your time off, plus complimentary tickets for your friends and family.
* Discounted gym membership.
* Discounts on cinema tickets, restaurants, high street shops and more via Perks.
* Pension scheme with generous employer contributions.
Our Requirements
* Have a background and proven experience in either customer service, education or animal management (with a relevant qualification in one of the above desirable).
* Be passionate about excellent customer service and confident in a sales situation.
* Be aged 21 or over with a full clean UK driving license in order to be trained to drive the tour buses (21+ required for insurance purposes).
* Be strong communicators - this role includes speaking to visitors face to face, on the telephone and using a microphone to address large crowds. You will also be required to manage and lead large groups of up to 40 guests around the zoo, so strong public speaking and crowd management skills are a must.
* Be willing to be trained to have regular involvement in early morning bus tours - either in a Tour Guide capacity or as a Bus Driver (preferably both).
* Be a self-motivated, proactive team player with high personal and work standards.
* Have a flexible and positive “can do” attitude.
* Have a strong understanding of computer systems including Microsoft Word and Excel and be confident at responding professionally to emails.
* Flexibility in this role is key so the successful candidates must be available for up to 40 hours a week on a 5 out of 7 working rota, including weekends and bank holidays.
Although not essential, the following would be desirable:
* It would be advantageous if customer service experience had been gained within a sales environment.
* Experience of EPOS systems and cash handling.
* A good knowledge of Chester Zoo’s animal collection and conservation work.
* Experience gained in a Tour Guide capacity would be advantageous.
* Hands-on experience working with animals (zoo industry background desirable).
Our interview process adopts an Assessment Centre style, featuring collaborative group elements. If selected for an interview, you will be required to deliver a brief 2-minute presentation to the group. Further information provided following successful shortlisting.
Shortlisting of applications for the role will take place while the advert is live; therefore, candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
#J-18808-Ljbffr